Raeford Christian Food Bank Celebrating 10th Anniversary

What began modesty at the Raeford United Methodist Church in 2015 has quietly become one of the area's most reliable food sources for people struggling through uncertain times.

Joy Stansberry

The third Thursday of every month, from 4 to 5 p.m., people have lined up at a back door at the east side of the church to receive a helping hand for a decade. The decision to use a somewhat discrete entrance—one not visible from Main Street—is a reflection of the program’s respectful approach.

Everyone who arrives is treated the same, with compassion and understanding. “We cannot judge, and we don’t…Everybody deserves to eat,” explained Joy Stansberry, committee chairperson since the food bank began.

On April 17 a total of 45 families received food that included canned goods, non-perishable items and meat. Friendly greetings were mixed throughout, but there were no religious sermons or lectures. With 120 months under its belt, that comes to roughly 5,400 people and families served by the Raeford Christian Food Bank.

“It just tugs at your heart,” Stansberry said, “You see those little kids.” Elderly are another group she sees often. “Even if you qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, at the price of food today it’s difficult.” Another committee in the church usually sets up in the same hall to give away donated clothing and other items. Holy Week activities prevented the outreach programs from operating simultaneously when we visited, but the efforts typically run in concert.

Team members (left to right) Richard Phillips, Joy Stansberry, Mike Free, Deanna Ray and Raeford United Methodist Pastor Brian Perry. Not shown are Cynthia Free and Gary Brigman.

Although the food bank operates out of the Raeford United Methodist Church, volunteers and recipients of any faith—or lack of—are eagerly invited. “Everybody is welcome to help or come get food,” Stansberry said.

As for the decade of quiet success, she emphasized it was only possible because of the incredible team. Other hardworking members include Richard Phillips, Mike Free, Cynthia Free, Gary Brigman, Deanna Ray and Raeford United Methodist Pastor Brian Perry.

On occasion local Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops have stuffed bags. Butterball and Campbell’s Company (of soup fame and more today) are big donors. Unilever has even pitches in. “The last time they gave us so much body wash the whole town smelled good,” Stansberry said.

Committee member Mike Free has the unenviable task of submitting a monthly report to keep the program in compliance with the strict requirements of Second Harvest. In doing so, and paying an annual fee, the Raeford Christian Food Bank qualifies for discounted, sometimes free, food to give away. Other rules include annual inspection of storage areas and even a current pest control contract.

The church also maintains an account to purchase items from Food Lion when supplies run low. There’s a lot of moving parts to the program, and help is always needed—both in volunteers and donations. “I would love to have farmers donate,” Stansberry said.

Hoke County residents interested in helping can call (910) 875-2111. Non-perishable food items or checks can be dropped off at Raeford United Methodist Church, 308 N. Main Street, Raeford, any weekday (except holidays) from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Somehow the food pantry’s team maintains a contagious enthusiasm, even after a 10-year period that included the Covid-19 pandemic. The dedication showed as they lined up and sorted items while families formed lines out back. How do you keep that kind of focus? Because they are people, just like us, struggling to put food on the table and, “…deserve to be treated with love and respect,” Stansberry reminded us.